Sociology

Sociology attempts to explain human behaviour by studying how the social groups people belong to influence their actions and beliefs.

In Sociology, you will:

Develop an awareness and understanding of patterns of behaviour.

Consider contemporary debates and problems.

Learn to understand the methods used to collect data.

Explore current social issues, as well as earlier studies and theories.

Explore different areas of society.

Structure of the course

Y12 exams

UNIT 1 Acquiring Culture [15%]

Introductory Core on socialisation and culture

Youth Cultures

UNIT 2 Understanding Society [25%]

Methods of Sociological Enquiry

Religion

Y13 exams

UNIT 3 Power and Control [25%]

Crime and Deviance

UNIT 4 Social Inequality [35%]

Applied Methods of Sociological Enquiry

Social Inequality

Career paths and next steps

This social science subject, which helps students develop a range of transferable skills, opens up many career paths, including those in law, health, politics, education and youth work, social welfare, government, public services, marketing, counselling, charities and the voluntary sector.

FAQ about the subject

Is it a science?

No, it’s a social science; because it’s theories are based on qualitative and quantitative research methods, but nothing can be scientifically proven, and all evidence is subject to interpretation.

Is it the same as psychology?

No, because psychology studies what goes on inside a person’s head, and sociology studies interaction between people in various social groups. Those who enjoy one of these subjects may well find the other of interest.

Which topics are covered at HHVCS?

In Y12 we study youth cultures and religion, whilst in Y13 we learn about crime and deviance, and social inequality. In both years we learn how qualitative and quantitative methods are used to undertake sociological research.

Teacher Profiles

Mrs Rebecca Pritchard - BA History (Hons); PGCE (QTS) History (Secondary).